The Scottish government is encouraging people to look after their mental health in the new year amidst ‘post-Christmas blues’, unpaid credit card bills and cold, dark nights. 

The Principal Medical Officer for Mental Health at the Scottish government is encouraging people to check out information and support available on the NHS Inform Mind to Mind campaign site. 

The site contains videos that share stories of how others deal with life’s challenges as well as signposting to resources and support. 

Recognising that January marks a ‘difficult time’ for many across Scotland – from the dark nights to increased financial pressures – the government says the campaign aims to ensure people take care of their mental wellbeing. 

It comes just weeks after Edinburgh researchers announced a new study looking to uncover the impact of light on mental health, specifically exploring the relationship between light and bipolar disorder. 

Dr Alastair Cook, Principal Medical Officer for Mental Health, says spending time outside and talking can help with the increased stressors people are facing: 

“It can be difficult at this time of year when it’s cold, dark and people have added worries. Looking after your mental health though is as important as looking after your physical health and we should all try to take steps every day to help our wellbeing. 

“For some people that could be spending time outside, with family or friends or exercising. Everyone is an individual so it’s whatever works for you and can help brighten your day. 

“If you are feeling low, overwhelmed, unable to sleep, struggling to get out of bed, or just not yourself, I’d encourage you to talk to someone about how you’re feeling as it can help lighten the load. Remember support is there, so please reach out if you’re struggling.” 

Funding cuts and a fragmented system 

In November, the Scottish government launched the world’s first national self-harm strategy, investing £1.5m to build services and deepen compassionate understanding of self-harm.  

However, psychiatrists have since expressed “utter disbelief” at cuts to mental health funding revealed in the 2024-25 budget in December. 

Meanwhile, Holyrood’s Public Audit Committee begun an investigation into ‘under-pressure’ adult mental health services, after Audit Scotland revealed a ‘fragmented’ system. 

Scotland’s Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing, Maree Todd, today says there are “lots of things” people can do to support their own mental wellbeing:  

“The challenges associated with the new year and post-festive period can be a difficult time for many people, including those facing pressures on their personal finances. Money worries can impact on our mental health and wellbeing, and it’s normal to feel stressed or down.  

“Reaching out to loved ones or friends and talking about how we’re feeling can help to lift our mood and allow us to support others. 

“Whether we’re spending time with friends, being active or taking a moment for ourselves, there are lots of things we can do every day to support our wellbeing.” 

Read more: New action plans signal mental health ‘reset'; New mental health support to go national; Robots could play part in combatting loneliness; Role of Mental Health Officers ‘critical’; Self-harm support strategy launched; Government ‘not on track' for mental health

Sign up to our bulletin for key health & social care updates straight to your inbox and you can follow healthandcare.scot on Google News.